Discover Winston Salem’s Exciting Downtown Arts Scene
Winston Salem, also known as the City of Arts and Innovation, is a hub of creativity and cultural expression. Boasting a rich history and vibrant arts community, the Downtown Winston Salem art galleries provide many opportunities for exploring various forms of art – galleries showcasing local talent to vibrant arts districts have something to offer every art enthusiast! In this article we’ll take you on an art exploration adventure in Winston Salem as we highlight must-visit galleries and attractions.
Birth of an Artistic Hub (the advent of Downtown Winston Salem Art Galleries)
Winston-Salem’s art scene did not develop overnight; rather it has slowly grown through years of dedication from local artists and organizations. In January 1956, the Associated Artists of Winston-Salem (AAWS) was founded to provide exhibition opportunities and support to local artists; later that same month came the establishment of America’s inaugural Arts Council – providing the basis for further artistic expansion of our city.
Downtown Arts District Association (DADA).
Artists first established the Downtown Arts District during the late 70s when they opened shops and galleries along Trade and Liberty between 5th and 7th Streets, creating the Downtown Arts District. To promote its further growth, in 1998 the Downtown Arts District Association (DADA) was created. Composed of artists and entrepreneurs alike, DADA hosted events designed to engage the general public as well as showcase local creative talent.
Gallery Hopping in Downtown Winston Salem Art Galleries
One of the best ways to explore your city’s art scene is through gallery hopping. Each first Friday of the month, DADA hosts the First Friday Gallery Hop where galleries open their doors between 7-10 pm for public access and offer visitors an amazing opportunity to visit multiple galleries while discovering an array of artistic expressions.
Artworks Gallery at 564 N. Trade St is an artist-run cooperative gallery operating since 1984. Offering local artists a platform to exhibit and sell their artwork such as paintings, sculptures, mixed media art pieces, calligraphy calligraphy pottery photography this gallery provides an ever-evolving collection that makes each visit to Artworks Gallery truly enjoyable and different from all others.
Delurk Gallery at 207 W 6th Street is an acclaimed downtown gallery featuring rotating exhibits of local artists. This spacious gallery provides visitors with access to artwork available for sale by these local partners and regularly provides fresh pieces by established and emerging local talent alike. Don’t miss this place for its rotating art exhibitions and beautiful pieces on sale – come experience Delurk Gallery today!
Diggs Gallery should be on every art lover’s itinerary. Situated at 601 S Martin Luther King Jr Drive in North Carolina, Diggs Gallery stands as one of the largest African arts galleries, hosting exhibitions, publications, and programs that highlight African-American and regional art forms.
Gallery VI at 717 Trade Street NW stands out for its stunning collection of commissioned pieces from both local and nonlocal artists, catering to collectors of all levels of experience and amateur enthusiasts alike. Gallery VI offers something suitable for every taste imaginable – their knowledgeable team will assist visitors in selecting a masterpiece for their art collections.
MESDA (Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts) provides an important venue for early Southern decorative arts to be preserved and displayed.
Visit MESDA Museum of Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA) in Old Salem to gain insight into its rich history of Southern decorative arts. At 924 South Main Street, this museum houses an array of ceramics, paintings, needlework, furniture and other artwork from 18th and 19th century sources that showcases its craftsmanship and beauty.
Piedmont Craftsmen Gallery.
Celebrate fine craftsmanship at the Piedmont Craftsmen Gallery located at 601 N. Trade Street and exhibit over 400 talented craft artists from around the United States. Not only does the gallery serve as an exhibition platform, but also provides education and community engagement opportunities. A truly treasure trove of unique, handcrafted art pieces.
Red Dog Gallery at 630 N. Liberty St. in Winston-Salem was opened by Art for Art’s Sake (AFAS), a volunteer-based nonprofit organization. This gallery showcases local artists and artisans with pieces that stand out as unique offerings that cannot be found elsewhere – a true reflection of Winston-Salem’s vibrant creative community.
Reynolda House Museum of American Art
Reynolda House Museum of American Art provides art enthusiasts with an unforgettable museum experience. Situated at 2250 Reynolda Rd in Jacksonville Beach, this museum houses an unparalleled collection of artwork spanning three centuries by celebrated artists like Jacob Lawrence and Georgia O’Keeffe – each piece offering insight into American art at its best.
SECCA (Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art)
SECCA, located at 75750 Marguerite Dr, strives to spark conversations and unite diverse communities through contemporary visual art, music, dance theater and education. Their regularly changing exhibits ensure each visit provides something exciting and thought-provoking – don’t miss your opportunity to experience cutting edge contemporary art at SECCA!
Wrapping up our reviews of Downtown Winston Salem Art Galleries
Winston Salem’s art scene is an essential indicator of its cultural vibrancy and creativity. From historic MESDA to contemporary galleries in Downtown Arts District, you will discover an abundance of artistic expression. Winston Salem offers something for all tastes; whether you are an experienced art collector or simply appreciate beauty of creative works – take some time to stroll through Winston Salem’s art districts, galleries and discover hidden gems that make Winston Salem such a haven for art enthusiasts!